If you drive a vehicle made after 2015, there is a good chance it has Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS), and that means a simple windshield replacement is now a lot more technical.
What Is ADAS?
ADAS is a collection of safety technologies built into modern vehicles. These systems rely on cameras, sensors, and radar, many of which are mounted on or near the windshield. Common ADAS features include:
- Automatic emergency braking: detects obstacles and brakes for you
- Lane departure warning: alerts you when you drift out of your lane
- Lane keep assist: gently steers you back into your lane
- Adaptive cruise control: adjusts speed based on traffic ahead
- Collision avoidance: warns of potential impacts
These features can be the difference between a close call and a serious accident. They are safety-critical systems.
Why Does Calibration Matter After Windshield Replacement?
The front-facing camera is typically bonded directly to the windshield. When the old glass is removed and new glass is installed, the camera position shifts, even if only by a fraction of a millimeter. At highway speeds, that tiny offset can translate to metres of error in how the system reads the road.
Without recalibration:
- Lane keep assist might steer you toward the lane line instead of away from it
- Emergency braking could trigger too late, or not at all
- Adaptive cruise control might misjudge the distance to the car ahead
In short, skipping calibration turns your safety features into safety hazards.
Types of ADAS Calibration
There are two methods, and the one required depends on your vehicle's make and model:
- Static calibration: Performed in a controlled indoor environment using specialized targets placed at precise distances from the vehicle. This is the most common method and requires professional equipment.
- Dynamic calibration: The vehicle is driven on a road at specific speeds while the system recalibrates itself using road markings and surroundings. Some vehicles require both static and dynamic calibration.
Does My Vehicle Need Calibration?
If your vehicle has any of the ADAS features listed above, the answer is almost certainly yes. As a general rule, most vehicles from 2018 onward require calibration after windshield replacement. Many 2015–2017 models do as well, depending on the manufacturer and trim level.
Not sure? We check every vehicle before starting work and let you know exactly what is needed.
What Happens During Calibration at Auto Glass Xperts?
Our certified technicians use OEM-grade diagnostic equipment to recalibrate your camera system after every windshield replacement that requires it. The process typically takes 30 to 60 minutes and is performed as part of the replacement appointment. No second visit needed.
We also confirm with your insurance provider that calibration is covered under your claim, so there are no surprise costs.
Do Not Take Chances with Safety
ADAS calibration is not optional. It is a critical safety step. If a shop replaces your windshield without mentioning calibration, that is a red flag. At Auto Glass Xperts, it is a standard part of our process.
Need a windshield replacement? Get a free quote. ADAS calibration included.
Need Windshield Repair?
Get a free, no-obligation quote from Auto Glass Xperts. We handle insurance claims, offer mobile service, and back every job with a lifetime warranty.
Get a Free Quote